GM 4.3 Questions.

4.3 project is in full swing. Hoping to use a double roller SBC chain on our 4.3 (2001 model).

I'm wondering if the SBC double row swaps in place of the stock single row on a balance shaft 4.3?

Also, would a SBC steel timing cover swap as well?

If anyone has stock cam specs for this model range 4.3, I've been looking with little success. I've been hoping to find an "RV" style cam, but can't find anything to work with a balance shaft. Might have to call my cam grinder.

Can you ditch the balance shaft? That should open up some more options. Are you staying in true "vortec" form with injection etc, or going carb and dist?

if it's got a balance shaft, then no a small block timing cover won't bolt up. you're stuck with the 4,3 cover.

you also won't be able to use a small block timing chain set unless you ditch the balance shaft.

the cam grind itself doesn't care if it has a balance shaft, only that you use one made for a factory roller lifter setup.. there should be a few factory style replacement roller cams out there, and i highly doubt if anyone is going to make one that is smaller than the stocker. as to how big the stock cam is: grab a caliper and measure the lobes... subtract the base circle measurement from the full lift measurement to get the lobe lift, then multiply by 1.5 to get the lift at the valve... it won't be exact, but it will be close enough..

also the 01 vortec engine has the reluctor wheel that slips on the crank snout after the timing gear that gets sandwiched by it and the balancer, and needs to line up with the crank position sensor, so unless you're going carbed you are stuck with a stock or stock replacement chain.

Carb is the plan, Carter AFB.